History
The station was open from 1904 to 1948, when it was closed because of platform lengthening at 23rd Street, and the opening of an entrance at 22nd Street. The stations are close enough that it is possible to see the lights of 14th Street – Union Square down the tracks from the two side platforms of this station. The two platforms are as built and only 5 cars in length.
The station's ceiling was originally fitted with glass in order to let natural light in. It has green faience plaques and mosaic name tablets by Heins & LaFarge / Grueby Faience Company from 1904. The ceiling was also decorated with ornamental motifs.
The station is no longer accessible from the street, but its graffiti-covered walls can be seen through the windows of any Lexington Avenue local train, as well as from express trains if no local train blocks the view.
Read more about this topic: 18th Street (IRT Lexington Avenue Line)
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